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A Senior's Downtown Bucket List

Michigan State University's Sparty statue

By Allie Huntley, DLI Intern

As I head into my senior year at Michigan State, I’ve found myself reflecting on everything I’ve
experienced over the past three years. Starting college can make your world feel surprisingly
small. It’s easy to stay within your comfort zone, and it can be a challenge putting yourself out
there, especially when you don’t know where to start. Looking back, there are so many places I
wish I had explored and experiences I wish I had known of sooner. Sometimes the best part of
college isn’t finding your favorite spot on campus; it’s exploring everything just outside of it.
From local restaurants and community events to parks, public art, and small businesses,
downtown has become an extension of the college experience I wish I had discovered sooner.
So, if you’re a senior hoping to make the most of your final year or even a freshman just getting
started, here’s a bucket list of things I think every student should do before graduation.


● Attend a Lansing Lugnuts game
● Walk around Cooley Gardens
● Walk down the Lansing River Trail
● Take a free tour of the Capitol
● Try a new coffee shop and study
● Kayak on the Riverfront
● See a local art exhibit or gallery
● Have a picnic at Adado Riverfront Park
● Watch a sporting event at a local restaurant
● Shop local for birthday or holiday gifts
● Volunteer at a downtown event


College years can go by with a blink of an eye. My advice would be to take advantage of everything this community has to offer, both on campus and beyond. Four years pass quickly, but the memories you make along the way are what you’ll take with you long after graduation. So if you find yourself looking for activities to pass the time, make your way to Downtown Lansing, and you will find it has something to offer any student

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